Autism is a condition that profoundly affects the lives of
families. There are difficulties in getting a precise diagnosis,
particularly since autism is a range of disorders and since other
conditions may accompany it. There are difficulties in
treatment--getting insurance coverage, deciding among the range of
therapies touted as beneficial, figuring out if dietary changes
might help, getting a child into the right classroom environment.
And there are difficulties in coping-trying to understand what is
going on, finding the time and strength to be an effective
advocate, getting rest and support, and coping with stresses
on the parents' marriage and on other children in the family.

Mitzi Waltz has been a professional author, journalist, and
editor for over a decade, covering topics ranging from computers
to health care. She is the author of six books for people with
brain disorders. Her latest book, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, is
an updated and expanded edition of the earlier title, Pervasive
Developmental Disorders. Other titles include Adult Bipolar
Disorders, Bipolar Disorders (childhood and adolescent
disorders), Tourette's Syndrome, Partial Seizure Disorders, and
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders.

After working as an advocate for people with brain disorders for
a number of years, Ms. Waltz is pursuing a doctorate in order to
teach and conduct academic research. She is currently with the
Autism Research Unit at the University of Sunderland in England.
The ARU is well-known internationally for its work on the
relationship between autism and metabolic disorders. Waltz's
doctoral research is focused on the medical history of autism,
and she has presented to audiences in the UK and Europe on this
topic and others related to autism.

About the book

Autistic Spectrum Disorders is written for parents (or newly
diagnosed adults) who struggle with these neurological conditions
that profoundly impact the life of child and family. Author and
patient advocate Mitzi Waltz incorporates the latest medical
findings on possible causes for ASDs and on treatments.

Topics include:

Getting a diagnosis, including preparing for a diagnostic
interview in a medical, psychiatric, or school setting

We publish clear, concise, accessible information about the
medical, practical and emotional aspects of health issues. Our
authors are patient activists, knowledgeable about specific
conditions and diseases, who have built strong and networked
communities of patients, families, and caregivers.

Patient-Centered Guides is a wholly-owned subsidiary of O'Reilly
& Associates, Inc. O'Reilly is recognized worldwide for its
technical books that provide value to people who are experiencing
information pain. O'Reilly publishes books that make a difference
in people's lives.